FIRE announces block party to celebrate Michigan town’s inaugural First Amendment Day

EASTPOINTE, Mich., Aug. 22, 2024 — Autumn may be just around the corner, but the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression forecasts sunny days ahead for free speech in Eastpointe. 

On Friday, Sept. 6, FIRE will throw a block party to celebrate the city’s inaugural First Amendment Day! On Sept. 6, 2022, former Eastpointe mayor Monique Owens censored three constituents, shouting them down when they tried to criticize her. Now, after FIRE helped vindicate their rights in court, September 6 has been transformed into a celebration of the First Amendment. The event, which is free and open to all ages, will be held at Spindler Park from 4:30-7:30 p.m. RSVPs are strongly encouraged, and you can do so here. 

“This First Amendment Day event is set to be an unforgettable celebration of free speech and community spirit,” said FIRE Program Manager Elizabeth Stanley. “With fun games, delicious food, and good vibes, it’s a perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together and enjoy the freedoms we all cherish. We’re excited to see everyone at Spindler Park for an evening full of fun and creativity!”

Eastpointe established First Amendment Day as part of a settlement agreement with the four residents Mayor Owens censored during the public comment period of city council meetings. With FIRE’s help, these residents sued the city on November 10, 2022. To settle the lawsuit, Eastpointe agreed to pass a resolution apologizing to the plaintiffs and enshrining Sept. 6 as First Amendment Day in the city. 

The settlement also required Eastpointe to remove an unconstitutional rule that prohibited members of the public from directing comments at elected officials during city council meetings. Mayor Owens used that rule as justification to silence her critics. To settle the case, Eastpointe also paid plaintiffs Karen Beltz, Cindy Federle, Mary Hall-Rayford, and Karen Mouradjian $17,910 each — a sum representing the First Amendment’s ratification in 1791. 

Hall-Rayford, Federle, and Mouradjian will be in attendance on Sept. 6. 

“Four women stood up for our right to free speech and won!  Now the entire city gets to celebrate,” Hall-Rayford said. “Thanks to FIRE, this holiday will serve as a regular reminder of our First Amendment rights!”

Event attendees can enjoy yard games, arts and crafts, and free food, including vegetarian and vegan options, from Max’s Italian Beef food truck (while supplies last). Everyone will receive goodie bags that include, “Finding Your Voice,” a FIRE-produced, kid-friendly comic book about free speech; and FIRE merch. 

“The lawsuit against Eastpointe was one of FIRE’s first-ever off-campus lawsuits, so this victory has extra significance to us,” said FIRE Program Officer Isabelle Brito. “This event is not just a celebration but a step towards helping the public foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the First Amendment. Together, we can ensure that the principles of free speech and expression are upheld and respected by all.” 

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to defending and sustaining the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE educates Americans about the importance of these inalienable rights, promotes a culture of respect for these rights, and provides the means to preserve them.

CONTACT

Jack Whitten, Media Relations Specialist, FIRE: 215-717-3473; media@thefire.org